Full Breakdown
Hamas Urges Iran to Halt Attacks on Gulf States Amid Ongoing Conflict
3/14/2026, 11:56:16 PM
Hamas's Call for Restraint
The Palestinian group Hamas has issued a rare appeal to its ally Iran, urging it to cease attacks on neighboring Gulf states while affirming Iran's right to defend itself against perceived aggression from Israel and the United States. In a statement, Hamas called on its "brothers in Iran" to avoid targeting regional nations and emphasized the need for cooperation to halt the ongoing conflict that has engulfed much of the Middle East. This appeal comes in the context of escalating tensions following the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, and has resulted in significant casualties and destruction.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict escalated after the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a coordinated U.S.-Israeli strike, prompting Iran to retaliate with missile and drone attacks on Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. The Iranian strikes have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, raising concerns among Gulf nations about their security and stability.
International Response
In response to Iran's actions, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution demanding an immediate cessation of all attacks by Iran against Gulf states, citing violations of international law and threats to global peace. The resolution, passed with 13 votes in favor and two abstentions, specifically condemned Iranian strikes against Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. The resolution has been met with criticism from Iran, which views it as a politically motivated maneuver that ignores the root causes of the conflict.
Criticism of Iranian Actions
Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia, have expressed outrage over Iran's sustained campaign of aggression, warning that continued attacks would lead to severe diplomatic and economic consequences for Iran. Riyadh condemned the targeting of civilian infrastructure, asserting that such actions violate international law and threaten regional stability. The Arab League has also condemned Iran's actions, labeling them a "massive strategic error."
Iranian Justifications and Responses
Iran has defended its military actions as necessary responses to U.S. and Israeli aggression, asserting its right to self-defense. Iranian officials have emphasized that their strikes are aimed at U.S. military installations rather than civilian targets in Gulf states. Despite this, the conflict has resulted in civilian casualties across the region, with reports indicating that at least 18 people have died in Gulf states due to Iranian attacks.
What's Next?
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions among Gulf nations regarding potential responses to Iranian aggression. The U.S. administration, led by President Donald Trump, has indicated a commitment to achieving a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, although the path forward remains uncertain. As tensions escalate, the potential for further military engagement looms, raising concerns about the broader implications for regional stability and global energy markets.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While affirming the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran to respond to this aggression by all available means in accordance with international norms and laws, the movement calls on the brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries,” — Hamas Statement
- “the targeting of civilian airports and oil facilities is nothing but a demonstration of determination to threaten security and stability and a flagrant violation of international covenants and international law.” — Saudi Foreign Ministry
- “ "This resolution is a manifest injustice against my country, the main victim of a clear act of aggression.” — Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran's Ambassador to the UN
The ongoing conflict continues to evolve, with significant implications for regional dynamics and international relations.
